On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast, we finally did something that felt long overdue: we sat down with our old friend Casey Webb, the host of Man V. Food, to talk not just about food—but about camping, outdoor cooking, travel, and how a shared love of the outdoors can reconnect old friendships in unexpected ways.
This conversation with Casey Webb wasn’t just an interview. It was a reflection on how camping has woven itself back into Casey’s life, how food and travel have shaped his career, and how saying “yes” to spontaneous adventures can open the door to deeper connection and joy.
A Shared Past—and an Unexpected Reconnection
Long before TV cameras, food challenges, and cross-country travel, our connection with Casey began in Red Bank, New Jersey, when we were all in our late teens and early twenties. Back then, Red Bank was a hub for young creatives—restaurants, coffee shops, improv comedy, live music—and Casey was right at the center of it. He was funny, encouraging, and clearly drawn to performing, whether it was on stage or in front of a crowd.
Like many friendships from that era, life eventually pulled us in different directions. Years passed—nearly two decades—without much contact. Then one night, while watching TV with our son, a familiar face appeared on the screen: Casey Webb, hosting Man V. Food. The surprise lasted about five seconds before everything clicked. Of course he was doing this. Of course this was his path.
We reconnected online, but it wasn’t until camping entered the conversation that things truly picked up again.
A Lifetime Love of Camping—Rediscovered
What we didn’t fully realize back then was how deeply camping shaped Casey’s childhood. Through Indian Guides, Boy Scouts, and winter camping trips with his dad and brother, he grew up learning how to live outdoors—often in cold, rugged conditions at Bass River State Park in New Jersey’s Pine Barrens.
As adulthood pulled him toward New York City, restaurant work, acting, and eventually television, camping took a backseat. Living small, traveling constantly, and chasing opportunities meant less time in the woods. But when the pandemic hit something shifted. Like many people, Casey felt the pull to return to the outdoors. And when he did, he didn’t tiptoe back in. He dove headfirst.
The first time we saw his winter camping videos pop up online, it was clear: this was someone who genuinely loved being outside.
Camping Together: From Assateague to Shenandoah
Our first real camping trip together happened at Assateague State Park, a place we have loved for many years. The weather was rough—howling winds, heavy rain, and powerful gusts—but the experience was unforgettable. Casey was tent camping on the ground with his dog Iggy Pup, while our camera guy Shawn stayed in Jeremy’s RTT.
The night was intense, but the morning made it all worth it. Casey unzipped his tent to find wild horses grazing just feet away—dry, safe, and completely immersed in nature. That mix of challenge and magic is exactly what makes Assateague special, and it cemented his love for camping even more.
Not long after, we met again at Big Meadows Campground in Shenandoah National Park, right as Casey had installed his brand-new iKamper rooftop tent—literally the day before the trip. The setup was quick, the views were stunning, and the proximity to Big Meadows Lodge meant we could grab dinner and watch the sunset before heading back to camp.
That trip reinforced something we’ve said on the podcast many times: the best setup is the one that makes you want to get up and go.
Discovering Overland East
Camping together eventually led us to Overland East, where Casey experienced his first true overlanding event. The camping field was filled with every setup imaginable—from minimalist rooftop tents to six-figure expedition rigs.
What stood out most wasn’t the gear—it was the community. People wandered freely, asking questions, comparing setups, and learning from one another. It reminded us of places like Fort Wilderness, where RVers casually “shop” other people’s rigs just by walking around the campground.
For Casey, it was a chance to refine what worked best for his lifestyle. As someone who values a small footprint and quick setup, the rooftop tent—especially with an annex—made perfect sense. It offered flexibility, comfort, and motivation to camp more often.
From Restaurants to Man V. Food
Of course, we couldn’t have Casey on the show without talking about his career. His journey to Man V. Food wasn’t overnight. It was built on years of restaurant work, acting auditions, improv comedy, production jobs, and persistence.
When he auditioned for the reboot of the show—originally under a different name—he didn’t even realize it was Man V. Food until he saw the contract. That moment launched six seasons, 90 episodes, and countless miles of travel.
What made Casey such a natural host wasn’t just his on-camera presence—it was his respect for restaurant workers, his curiosity about people, and his ability to make others feel comfortable. Those skills came from years spent in kitchens, on sets, and behind the scenes. And they translate just as naturally to campground conversations and shared meals outdoors.
What’s Next for Casey Webb: Live Fire, Hot Sauce, and More Camping
These days, Casey Webb is leaning even further into outdoor cooking through Live Fire Republic, working alongside Chef David Olson on immersive live-fire cooking experiences around the world. He’s also launching his own product line, beginning with Casey Webb’s Inferno hot sauce, a small-batch project rooted in community, local sourcing, and hands-on connection.
What ties it all together—camping, food, travel, storytelling—is a commitment to being present. Being outside. Paying attention. Sharing meals and moments that become memories.
As we wrapped up the episode, it was clear this wasn’t a one-off conversation. We’re already dreaming about future camping trips—New England, the Smokies, more Shenandoah—and more time around the campfire together.
Camping and Connection
This conversation with Casey Webb reminded us why we love camping so much. It’s not just about destinations or gear—it’s about connection. Old friendships rediscovered. New traditions formed. Stories shared around a campfire.
Whether you know Casey Webb from Man V. Food or are meeting him for the first time through The RV Atlas, one thing is certain: his love for the outdoors is real, deeply rooted, and still evolving. And we’re grateful that camping gave us the chance to reconnect, explore, and dream up what’s next.
We’ll see you at the campground.
